... attempt to accomplish their heroic act, thus making the act in itself heroic. Throughout the epic, Beowulf in many ways exhibited all the qualities and characteristics needed to be a true hero. Many Old English poems glorified a real or imaginary hero, and tried to teach the values of bravery. Beowulf ... superhuman abilities, such as the amazing power to hold his breath under water for an unlimited period of time. It is easy to feel that these characteristics separate from the realistic nature of the story, and give the impression that Beowulf is more like a myth than a man. In the ep...

• Word Count: 1723
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

... are the most appreciated group out of the three mentioned. But it is important to realize that strength was not the only characteristic a hero like Beowulf needed during this age; physical bravery was most appreciated when accompanied by understanding and discernment. This discernment was not merely practical; a larger spiritual understanding of God and the human condition supported it. This is the ... point of Hrothgar's "sermon" in lines 1700-82. An example of the mentioned characteristics is the Danish coast guard (lines 229-300) who respects and demonstrates these qualities in his t...

• Word Count: 1462
• Approx Pages: 6